An artist activity for Create Week created by Beth Coleman. Children should only do this activity under adult supervision.
Making your own dance moves is called choreography. Some people use stories, pictures, or music. Where do your ideas for making come from?
All activities can be done sitting or standing.

WARM UP
Let’s try this warm-up to your favourite song.
- If sitting, raise arms up and down. Alternatively, walk or jog on the spot.
Move side to side, and shimmy. - Spread your arms out wide and reach to each side.
- Pretend to hug a giant beach ball.
- Circle your hips writing your name in the air. It feels silly, but it’s fun!
- Bring each knee up and circle to the side.
- Draw circles in the air with each ankle.
- Roll your shoulders, then balance on your tip toes, reaching for the sky.
Challenge

Part 1
- Write down five words which stand out. Make an action with your body for each word. Verbs and nouns are excellent for this! Repeat each one for memory.
- Find a word for each of the five senses, which describes an image, sound or smell, taste or texture the poem creates for you. Use these words to inspire your dance.
- Link these five actions together to make your dance inspired by your poem.
Find a word for each of the 5 senses, that describes an image, sound or smell, taste or texture the poem creates for you. Use these words to inspire your dance. |
Part 2
Feeling brave? Include one of the movements below:
Something high/low | Repetition | Slow motion |
Something quick | Turn/ spiral | Freeze |
Moving through sticky mud | Floaty like a feather |
Part 3
- As with a story or poem, give your dance a clear beginning, middle and end.
- Create your dance to a song that makes you feel great.
- Experiment using different styles of music. Does this change how you move?
Add as much or as little movement as you like. If your dance takes on a different style or character than when you started, go with it… it will be great! |

Show off your moves:
Could you show a friend or family member what you have made?

Further activity:
It can be exciting to see a friend perform your moves. Often, we feel connected to others when we make something together.
- Could you teach the dance you made to a friend or family member?
- Could you learn some dance moves they have made?
- Could you make a dance together, taking it in turns to listen and to lead?

Beth Coleman
Beth competed as a national level gymnast before gaining a degree in Dance. She has an MA in Acting from The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and has enjoyed a 20-year career touring internationally as an acrobat, aerialist, dancer and actress in theatre, film & television.
Beth is currently Associate Director for Anystage Creative and has worked extensively as a movement and circus director. She continues to tutor in choreography and directing, leading and empowering young people to access and develop their own creative and choreographic process, including with Create.
Instagram: @bethcolemanuk
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